Matt Rule and the Nebraska Cornhuskers are not waiting around to win. After intermediate success in 2024, and making a bowl game for the first time in nearly a decade Coach Rhule is out to win. A much more aggressive approach in the transfer portal is being taken by Rhule and company this year. Ranked fifth in the Big Ten and 17th nationally by 247 Sports, Nebraska’s transfer class boasts many four star recruits including athletes that were the best in their position at their previous school. With 15 committed transfers, Nebraska is filling all gaps from talent leaving and even improving in most areas. This marks a significant shift from last year’s more subdued portal activity, where Nebraska ranked 50th.
In the previous cycle, Nebraska’s transfer efforts paled in comparison to powerhouses like Indiana, Wisconsin, USC, Michigan State, Ohio State, and Oregon. Even Purdue and Minnesota outperformed them. However, this year, Nebraska’s strategy has evolved, targeting high-caliber talent to bolster their roster.
The Cornhuskers’ 2025 transfer class features standout additions such as Rhett at safety from Georgia, Marques Watson-Trent, a linebacker from Georgia Souther, and Nyziah Hunter the leading wide receiver from Cal. Other notable transfers include Williams Nwaneri from Missouri, who may be the most impactful defensive player on the team this year, Kevin Gallic, a much needed long snapper from New Hampshire, Dane Key, the leading wide receiver at Kentucky and so many more.
Elijah Pritchett, a 6’6 offensive tackle, brings a wealth of experience from his time at Alabama. Starting in 10 games for the Crimson Tide in 2024, Prichett is very solid in the run game. Nyziah Hunter, a freshman wide receiver from California, stands out with his size and performance, making him a valuable addition to Nebraska’s offense. As mentioned before, Nyziah led Cal in receiving in 2024 and will be a force in this now stacked receivers room.
Williams Nwaneri though not fully proven at Missouri, has the potential to thrive under Nebraska’s defensive staff. This is a player that is thought to be so impactful that Missouri actually changed state law to keep Nwaneri in state. A consensus five star out of high school, he is a very impressive talent.
Nebraska’s proactive approach in the transfer portal is a response to significant departures, including 24 outgoing players. Key losses like running back Dante Dowell, tight ends Nate Borer and Thomas Fidone as well as wide receiver Malachi Coleman have left gaps that the new transfers aim to fill.
The 2025 schedule presents a golden opportunity for Nebraska, with winnable games and a favorable lineup that excludes Ohio State and Oregon. The Cornhuskers’ staff is keen on capitalizing on this chance to make a mark in the upcoming season. With a transfer portal class like this one, paired with their 2025 recruiting class, the Huskers may be a force to watch out for in 2025.